Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts welcomes Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr as new Chair
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts has announced the appointment of Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr as their next Chair. Ofield-Kerr succeeds Dame Rosemary Squire, who stepped down from the role earlier this year at the end of her three-year term.
With Mountview soon to celebrate their 80th birthday, Ofield-Kerr takes the helm at a key point in the institution’s history. A well-known figure in the higher education industry, Ofield-Kerr has had an extensive career committed to the creative arts, most recently as Vice Chancellor of Norwich University of the Arts. Previously he was also Vice Chancellor at University of the Arts London and University for the Creative Arts. He is Chair of the Board at Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, and was previously a trustee at Turner Contemporary in Margate.
Mountview’s Principal, Sally Ann Gritton, commented: ‘Rosemary has given such incredible support to Mountview, its staff and students during her tenure and I would like to personally thank her for her wise guidance and intentional kindness [...] The appointment of Simon Ofield-Kerr as our new Chair is exceptionally exciting for us. In such a tough climate for both HE and the arts I know that Simon will bring his wealth of experience, wisdom and passion to bear in helping shape the future of Mountview, our training and our commitment to the cultural ecology of Peckham.’
Speaking about his new position, Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr commented: ‘I am thrilled to be joining Mountview as Chair of the Board, and look forward to supporting fellow trustees, staff and students in delivering life-changing performing arts education. I am passionate about the importance of creative and performing arts education, not just in its vital support of the performing arts sector but also as a unique form of education that enables graduates to realise their ambitions and potential in all sectors, and indeed in their day-to-day lives as creative citizens. It’s a challenging time for both higher education and the creative arts, but I have huge faith that this institution will continue to thrive.'
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